Amp upgrade from Ayre V-5xe

Thyname there are a lot of good recommendations here.   I learned something with this thread.  I'm going to add the VX-R to my short list.  Soundstage gave it a great review but the reviewer noted that he's heard more impactful bass before.  Also, there doesn't seem to be much feedback on this piece either on 'gon forums or reviews.  It would be great if someone did some comparisons with this unit against similairly priced units, (Hegel H30, Luxman M900u, Pass X-350.8, etc....)

I am very close to pulling the trigger on a Pass Labs X150.8

Same power as my Ayre V-5xe.

Is this really going to be an improvement, or just a lateral move?

Should I just go with Ayre VX-5 Twenty instead?

Thanks

@thyname Only way to know is to bring the Pass 150.8 into your system. You already know how your Ayre sounds (and the Ayre ’Sound’). This will allow you to compare the two. It’s how I’d approach it.

Can you borrow the amp from the store to try it first in your room?

The 150.8 should be an improvement over the V5xe. But not as big improvement  as if you would go Luxman or Gryphon.

The only Pass Labs retailer is Reno HiFi in Reno Nevada. They do however in-home Demos, so I might try that. I would be in the hook for round trip shipping though if I don't like it.